Benefics

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A term used to describe heavenly bodies or planets that are thought to bring about positive or beneficial influences in astrology
2. Referring to astrological entities believed to promote good fortune and favorable outcomes
3. Denoting celestial bodies associated with harmony and prosperity in the context of astrology

Etymology: "Benefics" is the plural of "benefic," which in astrology names the planets considered lucky or favourable to those born under them, chiefly Jupiter and Venus (and traditionally the Moon when waxing). The adjective descends from Latin "beneficus," meaning "doing good" or "kindly," a compound of "bene" ("well") and "-ficus," from the root of "facere" ("to make or do"). The same Latin root gives English "benefice," an ecclesiastical office that brings income, and "beneficent," which carries the sense of doing good. The astrological use is the notable part: the term was borrowed into English for the technical language of astrology, where it stands opposite to "malefic," the name for the planets thought to bring misfortune, Saturn and Mars being the usual examples. The pairing shows how the Latin "bene-" and "male-" roots were used to sort the heavens into helpful and harmful bodies.

Synonyms: benefits, advantages, profits

Antonyms: harms, disadvantages, losses